The 2025 edition of TheatreMania Africa Festival (TAF), which held from December 9-10 at Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, was a two-day spectacular showcase of theatre and culture.
Kicking off at Shodex Gardens in Ilupeju on December 9, 2025, the festival solidified its status as the continent’s premier theatrical gathering, blending veteran honours with competitive excellence.
The highlight of the evening was the induction of three stage titans into the TAF Hall of Fame with Lifetime Achievement Awards. Legendary actors Taiwo Ajai-Lycett and Akin Lewis, including South African dance troupe, Africa Umoja were honoured for their contributions to global arts. In the corporate and leadership categories, TAF recognised those fueling the creative economy.
The highlight of the night was the command performance of Grain In the Wind 4.0 parading powerhouse performances by Dr. Sam Uche Anyamele featuring Titilola Aboyade-Cole (UK), Dr. Ochuko Odesa, Faloni Moyosore and Paul Uwagbai. The production’s technical depth and emotional resonance served as a fitting tribute to the festival’s theme of African unity and resilience.
The night saw a continental showdown of talent via the award competition. Also, the Generation Next Theatre discovered, mentored and trained future African/Nollywood actors, fostering creativity, morals and patriotism through competitions and performances.
The event was masterfully steered by hosts Claude Mwamba and Oluwatosin Alayande, ensuring a seamless flow of prestige and entertainment.
Meanwhile, Corona Secondary School emerged champion of the inaugural Generation Next Theatre. Out of 15 schools that submitted entries, only three made it to semi-final. They are VICMOB Schools, Shasha, Akowonjo, Lagos, Love Living Spring School, Bariga, Lagos, and Corona Secondary School, Agbara, Ogun State, which emerged winner.
“Seeing these young performers tackle themes of peace and conflict with such maturity gives me hope for the future of the industry. We are truly honoured to have schools participate actively in this year’s TAF. It can only get better and bigger with wider participation next year,” Sam Uche Anyamele said.
Shodex Gardens, Radisson Blu Hotel, First @Arts By First Bank, MTN Foundation, WAP TV, NTA, KDove Hotel, Nkan Media, Quidbot By Finnova, Eagles House Global Resources, and Showbiz magazine supported this years’ TheatreMania Africa Festival.